Qing Dynasty Turqoise Glazed Ceramic Grouping of Buddhistic Lions, or Foo Dogs, China ca. 1880. A trio of lions in playful positions revealing teeth and tongue. Note this piece has been repaired and has some loss as seen in images. Purchased at Sotheby's South Kensington. In Buddhism lions are symbolic of the bodhisattvas, the "sons of the Buddha" or "Buddha's lions". In buddhist iconography we find the lions in their role of dharma protectors supporting the throne of the Buddha and Bodhisattva. They are also found at the entrance of the monasteries and shrines.